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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

1 point system

Systems Engineer III

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Requirement - Systems Engineer III Location- Bellevue, WA 98005-Hybrid Contract W2 We are currently seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join the R&D team at our Bellevue office. In this role, you ...

Helion

Principal Operations Systems Engineer

Everett, WA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

As Principal Operations Systems Engineer, you will define how operational systems enable manufacturing execution across material flow, inventory, logistics, production, and shop floor operations. You ...

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All JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Principal Systems Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$23.9K

$169.8K

$255.5K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Seattle, WA is $169,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,600.00 and $199,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal systems engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in systems architecture, integration, and engineering principles, typically backed by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with systems modeling tools (such as SysML), requirements management platforms, and relevant certifications like INCOSE CSEP are highly valued. Outstanding problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for designing complex systems, guiding multidisciplinary teams, and delivering solutions that meet technical and business objectives.

How does a principal systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

A Principal Systems Engineer plays a central role in coordinating between hardware, software, and project management teams to ensure system integration and project alignment. They often facilitate technical discussions, clarify requirements, and help resolve complex engineering challenges by leveraging their expertise. Regularly, they lead design reviews, mentor junior engineers, and act as the technical liaison between stakeholders to ensure project milestones are met. This collaborative approach helps maintain project quality and fosters innovation within the team.

What is the difference between Principal Systems Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with certifications like PMP or INCOSEBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLead complex projects, oversee system integration, collaborate with cross-functional teamsSupport system development, perform testing, assist in system implementation
Employer & Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, large tech firms, government agenciesTechnology companies, manufacturing, defense contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior technical roles, career progressionEntry to mid-level roles, job responsibilities

The Principal Systems Engineer typically holds a senior technical leadership role, overseeing complex projects and guiding teams, while the Systems Engineer focuses on supporting system development and implementation. Both roles require engineering credentials, but the Principal position involves more strategic oversight and experience.

What does a principal systems engineer do?

A principal systems engineer designs, develops, and oversees complex engineering systems, ensuring they meet technical requirements and performance standards. They often lead technical teams, coordinate system integration, and utilize tools like modeling software, with a focus on system architecture, reliability, and scalability.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Principal Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Principal Systems Engineer job openings:

Principal Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,809 per year, or $81.6 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer - Medical Devices

Stark Pharma Solutions Inc

Bellevue, WA • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Principal Systems Engineer - Medical Devices

Location: Bellevue, WA (Hybrid – Flexible Remote/Onsite Schedule)

Contract Duration: 12 Months

Work Schedule: Standard hours 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (flexibility required based on project needs)

Job Summary

We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to support the development and integration of connected medical device technologies within a hybrid hardware/software ecosystem. This role will focus on system integration, verification & validation, data reliability, and end-to-end product performance across wearable devices, mobile applications, cloud platforms, and digital health systems.

The ideal candidate will have strong experience in systems engineering for connected medical devices, with expertise in integrated hardware/software environments, risk management, and product lifecycle development within regulated industries.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead integration planning and testing activities across wearable devices, mobile applications, cloud software, algorithms, and user-facing platforms
  • Develop and execute system-level Verification & Validation (V&V) strategies, protocols, and reports
  • Perform systems modeling, hazard analysis, risk mitigation, and reliability assessments
  • Analyze system performance, data flow, integrity, and reliability across end-to-end data pipelines
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Hardware, Software, Cloud, Quality, and Regulatory teams throughout product development
  • Support system troubleshooting, debugging, and root cause analysis related to hardware/software integration issues
  • Contribute to design reviews, technical documentation, compliance activities, and engineering best practices
  • Apply systems engineering methodologies and product development standards within regulated medical device environments

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in:

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Systems Engineering
  • Related technical discipline
  • 5–8+ years of Systems Engineering experience supporting:
  • Connected medical devices
  • Hardware/software integrated systems
  • Digital health or end-to-end product ecosystems